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Having a low birth weight (LBW) baby can be a scary experience. The thoughts of your precious newborn having possible health issues due to an early delivery and/or low birth weight can weigh on your mind. Many studies have been done on pre-term infants and low birth weight infants to see if it could be linked to delayed learning, cognitive development, and many other issues.

A study you might find interesting was done on 285 LBW infants that weighed between 4.4 to 5.5 lbs. Typically, babies that are LBW will be iron deficient. The study was performed to show if LBW infants who receive iron supplementation will have a lower risk of developing ADHD or other behavioral issues later on in life.

During the study the group of LBW infants were given iron supplements of 0, 1, or 2 mg/kg each day from 6 weeks to 6 months of age. When the children were 3.5 years old, along with 95 infants of normal birth weight (control group), were given a psychometric test and a questionnaire on behavioral problems. Scientists discovered there was no notable differences in IQ, but there were differences with behavioral issues, including ADHD.

It was discovered that 12.7% of LBW babies that were given no iron supplements displayed signs of behavioral issues, compared to the 2.9% of kids in the 1-mg group, 2.7% in the 2-mg group, and 3.2% in the control group.

Iron supplementation if found to be very important in an infant’s continued development even after birth. A great iron supplement for your baby would be Pharmics’ Ferretts IPS, it is non constipating, gentle, well absorbed and is a much better choice than ferrous sulfate. Choosing the best for your baby is important so do your research and take comfort in knowing that Pharmics is there to provide the very best.

Many people are improving their lifestyle with the goal of getting more healthy and feeling better. While a balanced diet and regular exercise are certainly critical components of becoming more healthy there are other aspects being overlooked.

One of the most ignored aspect to improving health is taking a multivitamin regularly. Most people assume that taking vitamins is only done with the purpose of fixing a problem. This might be true in many circumstances, but multivitamins are certainly an exception. When taken regularly they will actually work at improving overall health by ensuring the body is balanced. Basically they work to fill-in any voids a body might have and can produce many different benefits.

One of the biggest benefits multivitamins produce is helping to maintain a healthy weight by setting a metabolic rate. Some of the other improvements commonly scene are improved immunity and energy as well as a boost in energy.

While the benefits are common regardless of who is taking the multivitamins, they have different formulas that need to be catered for each person. Specifically they are adjusted based on gender which makes them even more effective. For women it improves their reproduction system and creates healthier pregnancies. Similarly, it helps men’s reproduction system to remain healthy and strong.

The human body has an amazing ability to thrive through many different challenges. One large challenge the body can face is various vitamin deficiencies. Some of the common deficiencies are vitamin C, vitamin D, or vitamin B12. These can be exacerbated during the holidays as people start neglecting taking care of their bodies. There are some easy ways to keep vitamin levels up without too much hassle.

Some of the signs of a vitamin C deficiency are bloody noses, fatigue, and poor immune system. To improve vitamin C most people think of oranges, which are great. However there are some other great options. Since vitamin C should be part of a normal daily intake using a combination of raw pineapple, broccoli, and asparagus (among others) is the ideal route to go.

Statistics have shown that low levels of vitamin D can contribute to diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and obesity. With such major site effects it’s important to make sure to keep levels up. Sunlight will help raise vitamin D levels, but it usually isn’t enough. Fish, milk, and some cereals are other foods that can get the levels moving upward.

Vitamin B12 can impact the body physically, but can also cause issues such as depression, irritability, and memory loss. When combined with muscle loss this can be a major issue. For vitamin B12 to improve there are basically two choices. The first is to eat more meat. Liver is easily the best source for boosting B12. If liver isn't appetizing enough to justify the reward salmon and other meats are the best bet. If meats aren't on the menu there are supplements Methylcobalamin being the best choice.

A healthy diet is always an ideal way of controlling nutrition; this can be extremely difficult for pregnant women. Prenatal vitamins are a tremendous tool for helping babies to develop and grow. They also limit the possibility of birth defects and in preventing Autism. While there are no guarantees in a fetus’ development, prenatal supplements help by essentially filling in nutritional gaps in the soon-to-be mother’s body.

Prenatal vitamins offer a wide range of nutritional help. One area they can help is supplying iron. This helps a body to create red blood cells, which transport oxygen through the body. With an iron deficiency a person will feel tired and weak, which is emphasized when pregnant. Iron is also needed to help prevent both anemia and low birth weight babies.

Another area prenatal supplements help is by increasing folic acid, which is vital for fetal development, especially right after conception. By ensuring you have enough folic acid early will help the fetus’ brain and spinal cord develop properly.

Of course a healthy diet combined with regular doctor visits are the first steps to helping a baby to develop. Relying too much on vitamins alone can cause undesirable results. Compare it to car insurance, which every driver should have. However, having car insurance doesn't make it safe for a person to drive recklessly. Similarly, just because someone is taking prenatal vitamins doesn't mean they can ignore other critical areas.

When talking about vitamins and supplements many people simply ignore iron. This can be a huge mistake. If your feeling exhausted or have a hard time just doing simple movements it could be an iron deficiency.

Iron is a mineral that is vital for a person to be healthy. Iron is an essential component in red blood cells. These cells distribute oxygen through the body. If the body doesn't have enough iron the body is unable to make enough red blood cells, which in turn creates a lack of oxygen. This lack of oxygen, commonly referred to as an iron deficiency, will make you feel tired and weak. In addition to feeling lethargic, an iron deficiency also affects fingernails, skin, and even your hairs health.

Iron deficiency is more common than most people think, especially in women. Statistics show that 20% of women, 50% of pregnant women and 5% of men are iron deficient and don’t have enough iron. If you have any of symptoms it’s best to consult with a doctor. An adjustment to your diet by eating high in iron foods and if necessary taking supplements can resolve the problem.

If you do require an increase in iron it’s best to gradually increase your iron intake to allow your body to adjust. If increased to quickly your body can have a hard time adjusting to the sudden jump in iron. The most common side effect is stomachache, which includes nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. If dealing with these consult your doctor and have your dosage adjusted accordingly. Good news though, Pharmics Ferrets Iron is going to adjust much more easily, because it really does depend on the iron supplement you use and Ferrets Iron is made to be easy on your body.

The first trimester is vital to the development of a baby. This is the time the baby is formed, and all the vital organs begin to develop, including the brain.

As early as weeks one through four, the neural tubes are formed in the baby’s brain. Neural development is the process that will generate, shape, and reshape the nervous system, from the earliest stages of embryogenesis to the final years of life.

The exact causes of neural tube defects aren’t known. You are at greater risk to having a baby with a neural tube defect if you:

Are obese

Have poorly controlled diabetes

Take certain antiseizure medications

The two most common neural tube defects are anencephaly and spinal bifida. Getting enough folic acid before and during pregnancy prevents most neural tube defects.

Many studies have shown that women who get 400 micrograms (0.4 milligrams) daily prior to conception and during early stages of pregnancy reduce their chances of their baby developing a neural tube defect by up to 70%.

Foods that are high in folic acid that women can eat during pregnancy are:

Lentils

Leafy greens

Citrus

Asparagus

Kidney beans

Broccoli

Fortified bread and cereals

Sunflower seeds

Avocado

Tomato juice

Here are some extras a woman can do during pregnancy to better help the development of her baby. Take your prenatal vitamins daily, get Omega-3s, be mindful of mercury with the fish that you eat, munch on fruits and veggies for snacks throughout the day, avoid alcohol, boost protein, pump up on your iron intake, don’t gain too much weight, and take steps to avoid food poisoning.

Click on the link above to learn more about our O-Cal F.A. Multivitamin and other prenatal supplements.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

What exactly are Omega-3 fatty acids? How do they affect the body? How to tell you are getting a good supplement form?

When it comes to fatty acids there are three types found in fish (EPA and DHA), then ALA which is found in sources such as seeds and nuts.

You need these fatty acids to function. Here are some of the health benefits:

Lower elevated triglyceride levels.

Help with joint stiffness and pain.

Known to boost the effects of anti-depressants and help with depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Important in visual and neurological development in infants.

Can reduce the symptoms of ADHD in some children and improve their mental skills.

May help protect against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Fish that are high in DHA and EPA are:

Anchovies

Bluefish

Herring

Mackerel

Salmon (wild has more Omega-3s than farmed)

Sardines

Sturgeon

Lake trout

Tuna

Good food sources of ALA are:

Walnuts

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil

Canola oil

Olive oil

Soybean oil

Taking a good Omega 3 supplement is a great way if you don’t eat fish 2-3 times per week. When looking for an acceptable supplement make sure it has all sources of DHA, EPA and ALA. Make sure you know the daily amount you are suppose to take. If you are treating a condition, discuss the amount of Omega 3 with your doctor.

If Rocky can do it, you can too. Take your Omega-3s!

Click on the link above to learn more about our Omega 3 supplement.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

For those that suffer from iron deficiency, the lack of energy and chronic fatigue can become a real drag on their life. If you’ve noticed that you no longer have the desire to get out of bed or to perform tasks that used to be second nature, then you might have an iron deficiency.

White House-produced video about Food Deserts

There is a significant amount of the population that is not getting enough iron due to their poor eating habits and food options. The new concept of food deserts has become an unfortunate hallmark of the American lifestyle. These areas of the country feature mostly high carbohydrate food choices that are also loaded with fats, sugars, and salts.

One of the best ways to ensure your body is getting the supplements that it needs is with a regular regimen of multivitamins. Further, if you feel yourself getting bogged down, or feeling defeated, then it may be time to get more iron in your system.

There are many celebrities and TV personalities that suffer from low iron and vitamin deficiencies. This can be caused by environmental factors, diet choices, genetics, or any combination of these.

Visit our website to learn more about iron deficiency, and to get the proper supplements.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Every mother dreams that her child is going to do great things. This all begins with a good, strong regimen of prenatal vitamins. If you have visions of your son hulking out on the football field, or your daughter dancing circles around other girls at the ballet, then you’ll want to focus on good nutrition during pregnancy.

Fan-produced video of Baby Iron Man

Since our prenatal vitamins are filled with DHA, they will provide the developmental amino acids and supplements required for a growing fetus. If a parent truly wants to give their child an advantage, the best place to start is in the womb.

While many children develop fine with their mother’s natural diet, the advent of today’s palette can be harmful to your baby. It is essential that a fetus gets Zinc, for example, to properly develop their brain. As any experienced parent will tell you, development of the brain is probably the most important for long-term happiness. Think of prenatal vitamins as a supplemental form of Baby Einstein® that takes place in development.

Whatever goals you have for your child, a healthy regimen of vital supplements is a good start! Visit our website to learn more.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Romance is much more Romantic when you both have Energy. An iron deficiency could cause a slump...

Whether people admit it or not, love is perhaps the greatest supplement of all. It promotes the production of Oxytocin and many other chemicals needed for a healthy, happy life. So next time your significant other is bugging you to watch something romantic, it may not be a bad idea to listen. The resulting impact on the body and brain could lead to superior long-term health.

Symptoms and their recommended counterparts:

Love is blind = Vitamin CLove is tired = Iron SupplementsLove is a battlefield = Omega 3 MultivitaminsLove is a DJ = Life is a dance floor

Enjoy these top ten rated romantic movies to bring back the Oxytocin to your brain. In the meantime, make sure your blood has enough iron to keep the energy in your love life.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

David McCandless has utilized his powers of data visualization to help people rapidly isolate the supplementsthat may have the best benefit for their lives.

Watch this impressive visualization of data at 12:25 that quickly and efficiently displays super foods and supplements that may be very helpful or altogether useless. You can find some of these supplements in the products section of our website.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Information is Beautiful... When properly represented.

Below are the most powerful super foods and supplements by order of effectiveness, according to research done by David McCandless. You can get many of these vitamin supplements at wholesale prices.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sleep Deprivation May Lead to Long-term Brain DamageIt is no secret that the brain needs rest in order to function properly. However, a new article from CNN suggests that long-term deprivation of REM sleep cycles can lead to extensive brain damage. According to the study, brain damage occurs in the centers of the brain responsible for alertness and cognitive function.

The article also details that more than 25% of the neurons died in these areas of the brain within laboratory rodents. It also details that having the ability to catch up on sleep is a myth. There is no real way to recover from long-term insomnia, and according to the study, rest is crucial for the brain.

Vitamins can help brain functions

In lieu of this study, there are some vitamin supplements that may help with brain function, and promotion of good cognitive health.

Maintaining the recommended daily doses of these three vitamins can promote healthy brain function, and potentially build resistance to long-term damage. While these supplements are helpful, it is strongly recommended that everyone get a full 8 hours of rest every day, unless instructed otherwise by a physician.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

So, it’s happened…you’re finally expecting. Now that your cloud of excitement for baby is starting to lessen, the accompanying joys of pregnancy are starting to enter into your thoughts. Pregnancy can be difficult to navigate through; your body goes through a wide number of changes and keeping your sanity can be difficult. We’ve compiled a list of things that will make pregnancy easier on you and healthier for baby.

Exercise. Doing pregnancy approved exercises and stretches can really help ease pain and give you more energy. It also helps decrease your chance of complications and you’ll bounce back quicker after labor.

Take a Prenatal Class. This allows you to become properly prepared and educated. It also provides the opportunity of making new friends who are also having kids.

Decrease Your Caffeine Intake. cut back to about 300 mg of caffeine per day. That’s around 2 cups of coffee. The caffeine isn’t good for the baby.

Increase your Calorie Intake. Most physicians recommend increasing it by 300-500 calories. Choose healthy options for the calories, such and vegetables and fruits. All the nutrients you intake are the ones that are going to the growth and development of your baby.

Go Swimming. Swimming creates a feeling of weightlessness and can help ease aches and pains.

Inspect Your Home for Dangerous Chemicals. Make sure none of your cleaners has toxic chemicals that can harm your baby during pregnancy. Using all natural cleaners is always a safe bet.

Take Prenatal Vitamins. Make sure not to take them on an empty stomach and accompany them with a lot of liquids. Vitamins and supplements can play a vital role in your nutrition. Folic acid and iron supplements are vitally important during pregnancy. Pharmics provides a variety of prenatal and multivitamin options, ensuring you maintain your optimal health throughout this beautiful process.

Could taking a prenatal vitamin supplement with folic acid before and during pregnancy help reduce the chances of your child being diagnosed with autism later?

According to a new Norwegian study, yes.

Researchers tracked more than 85,000 Norwegian children born between 2002 and 2008. Doctors asked pregnant women to fill out a questionnaire about supplement use, both before and during their pregnancies, and followed the children for an average of six years. Autistic disorder was present in 0.10 percent of children whose mothers took folic acid, compared with 0.21 percent in children whose mothers did not take folic acid.

In this study it indicates that prenatal vitamins, taken 3 months before becoming pregnant, and during pregnancy, may reduce the risk of autism:The study reports that mothers of children with autism and autism spectrum disorders were significantly less likely than mothers of children without autism to have taken prenatal vitamins three months before conception and in the first month of pregnancy. The finding, published in the Journal Epidemiology and the Journal of the American Medical Association , suggests that taking prenatal vitamins with Folic Acid in this period may help prevent these disorders, reducing the risk by some 40 percent.

In a new study of California moms, women whose children had autism recalled getting less folic acid through food and supplements early in their pregnancies than those whose kids didn’t develop the disorder.

The CDC and many physicians recommend that women of childbearing age take a prenatal vitamin daily. Have you taken your O-Cal Prenatal today? only 18 cent per day. Order today and get Free Shipping with Coupon Code FS35

In iron-deficiency anemia (IDA), the concentration of erythrocytes and/or hemoglobin in the blood is below normal. This can result from (a) inadequate iron in the diet, (b) poor absorption of ingested iron, (c) blood loss, or (d) an increased need for iron due to, for example, pregnancy. An estimated 3 to 12 million people suffer from IDA in the United States1.

Since two thirds of all iron in the body is contained in hemoglobin, iron deficiency is often simply thought of as a disorder that reduces oxygen delivery. However, iron is also required for normal activity by many other important enzymes (myoglobin, cyto¬chromes, catalase, peroxidase, tryptophan pyrrolase, xanthine oxidase, alpha-glycero¬phosphate oxidase, and aconitase) that are unrelated to oxygen transport.

The symptoms of iron deficiency can include any or all of the following: anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath during exercise, muscle abnormalities, tachycardia (rapid heat rate), pallor, headache, glossitis (inflammation of the tongue), koilonychias (spoon nails), pica, decreased work performance, impaired cognitive development and/or functioning, premature labor, and increased perinatal maternal mortality2.

Ferrous sulfate, the classical treatment of choice for IDA, was first approved in 1938; other iron salts have been used but have little advantage. The most prominent side effects of iron salts include heartburn, nausea and vomiting, upper gastric discomfort, diarrhea, and constipation. Reported gastrointestinal symptoms due to treatment with iron salts range in frequency from 15% to 40% depending on dose and other factors1,2. In many patients, these effects lead to noncompliance which prevents the effective treatment of IDA2.

The untoward GI effects of iron salts can be largely overcome by use of an Iron Protein Succinylate solution (Ferretts IPS), a preparation in which ferric iron is encapsulated in milk protein (casein); this form of iron is similar to that found in natural foodstuffs3. Because IPS is present as an insoluble precipitate at stomach pH, very little iron is released until IPS reaches a more alkaline environment in the intestine. Thus, there is very little gastric irritation4. In a clinical study of 3,500 patients, 93.7% reported satisfactory gastric tolerability4.

Another advantage of IPS is that, unlike iron salts, its absorption is not reduced by antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, or food intake3. Yet another advantage is that, since IPS is in solution, it cannot become lodged or retained like dry tablets or capsules of iron salts in the upper parts of the GI tract and cause serious irritation or ulceration in the oral cavity, larynx, or esophagus. _____________________________________________________________________ 1Goodman & Gilman’s The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 11th edition, 2006 2Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, 16th edition, Volume 1, 2005 3US Pharm. 2005;12:60-70 4ChemiNutra, 2004

The primary role of iron relates to the ability of red blood cells to adequately carry oxygen for use throughout the entire body

• Fatigue o To Prevent Fatigue, iron is needed by the body to make hemoglobin rich blood, which transports oxygen to the cells. o Iron is needed for adenosine triphosphate production (ATP), which is essential for cellular energy and proper cell function.

• Exercise o Replace losses due to increased physical activity. Iron is lost through sweat and through bleeding of the digestive tract from the jarring motion of exercise. o Studies indicate that 34% of female runners and 8% male runners are iron deficient.

• Pregnancy o Iron is needed for proper placenta development o Iron is needed for the prevention of pre-term and low birth weight babies o Studies estimate that up to 58% of pregnant women are iron deficient.

• Pediatric o Iron is essential during the first eight months for brain growth and the effects of anemia may be associated with developmental delays in both motor and cognitive abilities.

• Treatment Duration o Up to six months to restore low iron stores o When iron deficiency is left untreated, it can lead to conditions that are more serious (see Anemia.com)

Are prenatal vitamins really necessary? The answer is Yes. It’s tough to get all the nutrients you and your baby need, even if you eat a broad range of foods, including meat, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Most women can benefit from taking a prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement, preferably before they start trying to conceive. Think of it as an insurance policy to make sure you’re getting the right amount of certain crucial nutrients during pregnancy. Taking a prenatal vitamin is even more important for women with certain diets and dietary restrictions, health issues, or pregnancy complications. This includes women who are vegetarians or vegans, are lactose-intolerant or have other food allergies, smoke or abuse other substances, have certain blood disorders, have certain chronic diseases, have had gastric bypass surgery or are having twins or triplets.

Is there something in a prenatal supplement that I can’t get from food?

There are two crucial nutrients, folic acid and iron, are always included in prenatal vitamins because most pregnant women don’t get enough of them from food alone:

Folic acid: Getting enough of this B vitamin can reduce your baby’s risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly by 50 to 70 percent. Folic acid may also reduce the risk of other defects, such as cleft lip, cleft palate, and certain heart defects. Taking folic acid may even lower your risk of preeclampsia. Your body absorbs the synthetic version of folic acid better than the natural one found in food, so even if you eat a balanced diet, a supplement is strongly recommended.

Iron: Most women don’t get enough of this mineral in their diet to meet their body’s increased need during pregnancy, which can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Avoiding iron-deficiency anemia can cut your risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and infant mortality. A new study also indicates if you want a smarter baby you should take iron and folic acid during pregnancy.

Ferretts IPS infant dosage – Of all nutrient deficiencies, iron deficiency is the most common and is especially prevalent in infants and toddlers. – Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in infants may adversely affect long-term neurodevelopment and behavior; some of these effects may be irreversible. – Studies confirm that iron deficiency anemia increases lead absorption; therefore, prevention of iron deficiency anemia might also serve as to reduce the likelihood of lead poisoning.

80% of the iron present in a full term newborn infant is accumulated during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. It is very important that Mom not be iron deficient during the 3rd trimester.

Most healthcare professionals recommend that women during their child bearing years take a prenatal vitamin with Folic Acid (such as O-Cal Prenatal), whether they are pregnant or not. These recommendations are made for the benefit of the mother’s health and that of her developing baby. The specific formula of these multivitamins is to help alleviate any nutritional deficiencies in the mother’s diet. During pregnancy, a woman’s daily intake requirements for certain nutrients, such as folic acid, calcium, and iron will increase. Vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and folic acid are vital for proper fetal growth and development. Proper nutrition is the foundation for a healthy life. To help increase your likelihood of creating a healthy and nutritious environment in which your baby can develop, it is important that you establish a well-balanced diet and exercise routine before getting pregnant.

Women – take Folic Acid before you’re Pregnant!

Folic acid is very important because it can help prevent major birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine (anencephaly and spina bifida) by 50% to 70%. The CDC urges women to take Folic acid every day. Start at least one month before getting pregnant. (www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/about.html) Spina bifida, is the most common neural tube defect. Spina bifida may leave a child with varying degrees of paralysis, incontinence, and sometimes mental retardation. Neural tube defects occur within the first 28 days after conception, most often before many women realize that they are pregnant. About fifty percent of all pregnancies are unplanned the Department of Health recommends that you take folic acid each day. Natural sources of folic acid are: green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, and citrus fruits. It is also found in many fortified breakfast cereals and prenatal vitamins. Prenatal Vitamins May Reduce the Risk of Autism

The finding, published in the July 2011 issue of the journal Epidemiology, suggests that taking prenatal vitamins prior to conception and during pregnancy may help reduce the risk of autism. (journals.lww.com/epidem/Abstract/2011/07000/Prenatal_Vitamins,_One_carbon_Metabolism_Gene.8.aspx) Want Smarter Kids? Take Iron and Folic Acid during Pregnancy

Iron and folic acid are the two major nutrients that are crucial during pregnancy for neurodevelopment of the baby. A recent study reveals the important role of folic acid and iron during pregnancy and shows that mothers who take both the nutrients during pregnancy have smarter babies. Iron deficiency is considered to be the most common and widespread nutritional disorder in the world. (jama.ama-assn.org/content/304/24/2716.abstract)

A new large study revealed that fish oil or DHA intake does NOT result in lower levels of postpartum depression in mothers or improve baby’s cognitive functions or brain power. (jama.ama-assn.org/content/304/15/1675.abstract) High Folate Intake May Reduce Risk of Colorectal Cancer

Intake of high levels of folate (folic acid) may reduce colorectal cancer risk, according to a new study in Gastroenterology. Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that occurs naturally in food. Prenatal Vitamins are also rich in folate (folic acid).http://www.gastro.org/news/articles/2011/07/05/high-folate-intake-may-reduce-risk-of-colorectal-cancer Iron in pregnancy

Iron helps both the mother and baby’s blood carry oxygen. Iron will also help you avoid symptoms of tiredness, weakness, irritability, and depression. Also 80% of the iron present in a full term newborn infant is accumulated during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Therefore it is important to consume more iron while you are pregnant to ensure that you and your baby are getting enough oxygen.

Calcium in Pregnancy

Calcium during pregnancy can prevent a new mother from losing her own bone density, as the fetus uses the mineral for bone growth. During the last two trimesters of pregnancy and while breastfeeding, your body absorbs more calcium than when you are not pregnant. Your baby needs this extra calcium to build healthy teeth and bones. If you don’t get enough calcium in your diet during pregnancy, the calcium your baby needs will be taken from your bones. While a daily vitamin supplement is no substitute for a healthy diet, most women need supplements to make sure they get adequate levels of these essential vitamins and minerals. Not all prenatal vitamins are the same. Look for one that includes the following ingredients: Folic Acid, Vitamin D, Calcium, Vitamin C, Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, Zinc and Iron. Discover the unique benefits of O-Cal FA and O-Cal Prenatal Vitamins. Gentle, well tolerated, small easy to swallow tablets, physician recommended, patient trusted

Information on this page is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare professional.

Take a look at this study highlighted in the New York Times. It appears that prenatal vitamins, taken 3 months before becoming pregnant, and during pregnancy, may reduce the risk of autism:

A new study reports that mothers of children with autism and autism spectrum disorders were significantly less likely than mothers of children without autism to have taken prenatal vitamins three months before conception and in the first month of pregnancy. The finding, published in the July issue of the journal Epidemiology, suggests that taking vitamins in this period may help prevent these disorders, reducing the risk by some 40 percent.

New Packaging for Ferretts Iron SupplementIn response to comments from our customers the packaging of the Ferretts tablets has been changed from unit dose to a more convenient bottle with a child resistant cap. Also Ferretts tablets are now dye free. Please let us know what you think about the new packaging of our iron supplements.

Thank you for making O-CalI tried numerous other prenatal supplements, all of which made me feel ill, when I came across O-Cal one day. The supplements are easy on the stomach, devoid of too many extra “fillers” and quite inexpensive. Thank you for making this great-quality product. I am 8 months pregnant now and would recommend them to anyone! JessiK

At my prenatal visit my doctor gave me several brands of vitamins to try. I was nervous because I was already dealing with major morning sickness and am very sensitive to vitamins anyway. Out of the five she offered O-CAL F.A. was the only one that didn’t make my symptoms worse. Now five years later I’m still taking O-CAL F.A. for my daily vitamin because it’s easy on my stomach and is approved by my doctor. I’m so happy I have it and don’t have to fear taking my vitamins anymore! Thank you!